Hanoi (VNA) – Thuy Design House on November 28 evening unveiled a new collection titled "Ru Ho Xu Xang Xe Cong" at the GEM Centre in Ho Chi Minh City.
The collection, featuring over 60 meticulously crafted designs, transformed the runway into a sophisticated soirée of fashion fusion uniting contemporary and ethnic traditions.
With inspirations drawn from Vietnam’s iconic Le Mur Ao Dai (long gown), traditional Don Ca Tai Tu music, and the cinematic allure of ‘The Bac Lieu Playboy,’ the show paid homage to Vietnam’s artistic legacy while seamlessly blending it with modern esthetics.
Beyond its deep ties to fashion, the collection evokes the lifestyle and arts of Vietnam during the 1920s and 1930s, showcasing a rich cultural heritage.
The fashion show was divided into three main sections, each narrating a cohesive story. The creators included art director Thuy Nguyen, programme director Long Kan, music director Addy Tran, makeup artist Tung Chau, hairstylist Gill Nguyen, image director Kieng Can, communication director Khac Binh and catwalk director Nha Truc.
The first section featured “Ao Dai” with innovations like ruffled sleeves, rounded shoulders, and vibrant colours. Some designs even introduced geometric patterns, blending warm and cool tones harmoniously.
While maintaining the traditional form of “Ao Dai”, the collection added modern details to the neckline and sleeves, providing a fresh and contemporary feel.
Models appeared as if stepping out of the movie "Cong Tu Bac Lieu", embodying graceful figures in a culturally rich East-West space.
Growing up in the Mekong Delta, Long Kan drew inspiration from the region's “Don Ca Tai Tu” art, infusing the runway with heartfelt traditional lyrics that celebrate the essence of homeland and elevate the models' performances.
Meanwhile, the second session presented the grace and charm of “Le Mur Ao Dai”.
This segment was considered the soul of the collection, prominently featuring a style initiated by artist Nguyen Cat Tuong in the 1920s and 1930s. These designs marked a significant turning point, offering a multifaceted fashion space for Vietnamese women.
The 22 designs encapsulate a desire to honour traditional cultural values while reviving the enchanting styles of the past for contemporary women, especially during significant occasions such as festivals and New Year celebrations.
With captivating floral patterns, round necklines, and bright ombre colours, these designs cater to modern women who seek both style and comfort. The collection also innovatively incorporated “yem” - traditional Vietnamese undergarment and four-part dresses, refreshing the traditional aesthetic for contemporary life.
The skillful handling of materials and vibrant colour combinations made each outfit not only fashionable but also highly practical. This perfect fusion of tradition and modernity allows viewers to immerse themselves in the fashion narrative seamlessly.
The last session honoured “Cai Luong” - a form of Vietnamese folk opera - through fashion, featuring 18 dazzling designs that remained accessible to the public. Using familiar materials like cotton and chiffon, adorned with sequins and beaded embellishments, these outfits captured the attention of fashion enthusiasts.
With symmetrical structures and flowing garments, the collection transformed the runway into a majestic space reminiscent of a “Cai Luong” stage, showcasing designs that embody a century-old artistic legacy.
As the show concluded, the lanterns gracefully descended to the centre of the stage, illuminating the distinct cultural identity of Bac Lieu, resonating with melodies that evoke the charm of a bygone era.
The impeccable fusion of modern music and traditional singing, brilliantly orchestrated by Addy Tran, created an indescribable emotional experience, leaving a remarkable impression of the collection for the audience.
Born and raised in Hanoi, Thuy Nguyen graduated from the Hanoi University of Fine Arts and completed her Master’s programme in Ukraine. At 18, she held her first solo exhibition, paving the way for a successful artistic career. In 2011, she established Thuy Design House, blending traditional inspiration with contemporary aesthetics, and has organised numerous shows both domestically and internationally.
After nearly 20 years in the art world, Thuy founded “The Factory” contemporary arts centre in 2016, promoting contemporary art and connecting artists with art lovers. Her notable collections include "Lung Lieng," "Vien Man," and "Gio Mua Ve", showcased at prestigious fashion events such as the Vietnam International Fashion Week, ELLE Fashion Journey, and Dep Runway Show./.